Month: February 2023

Source: United States Navy

The ceremony, hosted in the Nigerian Navy’s Admiralty Conference Center in the Naval Dockyard, included remarks by U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Kirk Smith, deputy commander at U.S. Africa Command, and Nigerian Navy Vice Adm. Awwal Gambo, Chief of Naval Staff.

“What you heard today is a great example of multiple partners coming together and understanding shared challenges, and shared opportunities,” said Smith. “Precision is what makes us perfect, attention to every little detail is what makes us professional. The most important part is what we learn from the exercise to make us better for the next time that we come together.”

U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Calvin Foster, director of Maritime Partnership at U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa, also accompanied Smith during his visit to Nigeria for the closing of exercise OE23. While in Lagos, Smith and Foster met with Nigerian leaders at the Joint Maritime Security Training Center, Western Naval Command, Naval Air Base Ojo, and the Special Boat Squadron. The tour provided a comprehensive review of the multi-faceted approach Nigeria, and other partner nations, are taking in the region’s maritime security domain.

Nigeria, OE23 host and a key leader in the Gulf of Guinea’s maritime security, has been critical to the success of Obangame Express 2023. Gambo emphasized the importance of the exercise, and how continued practice and improvement on maritime challenges improves the security and stability of the nations involved.

“Coming together is a beginning, staying together is progress, and working together is success,” said Gambo. “These are powerful testimonies of steadfast commitment… enhancing maritime security across the board. In particular, these efforts are facilitated into the integration of Obangame, national capabilities of navies, and coastguards in achieving holistic and sustainable maritime security attention in the Gulf of Guinea.”

A comprehensive roster of events elevated this year’s exercise. Ashore, armed forces from the Benin, Nigeria, Togo, and the U.S., alongside international law enforcement agencies, conducted expertise exchanges on forensics collection, combat defensive tactics, first aid at the JMSTC. At the Lagos-area Maritime Operations Center, a multi-national team exchanged lessons on the monitoring and reporting of suspicious vessels at sea, and the communication network of maritime assets against transnational threats.

At sea, the participants conducted training in countering the trafficking of persons, narcotics, illegal fishing, and piracy, as well as Visit, Board, Search and Seizure simulations – all while maintaining communication and working in concert with partner and allied ships.

In conjunction with the operational training, the exercise featured developments with the Women, Peace and Security initiative, and multiple concerts by the U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa (NAVEUR-NAVAF) Band. Notably, the NAVEUR-NAVAF Band was hosted by Chief Dr. Nike Davies-Okundaye, an internationally-acclaimed Nigerian artist, Channels TV, an internationally-syndicated news program, and the University of Lagos.

Conducted by U.S. Naval Forces Africa (NAVAF) and sponsored by U.S. Africa Command (AFRICOM), OE23 is designed to improve regional cooperation, information-sharing practices, and tactical interdiction expertise to enhance the collective capabilities of participating nations to counter Illegal, Unreported, Unregulated (IUU) fishing and other sea-based illicit activity.

The participating nations during OE23 included Angola, Belgium, Benin, Brazil, Cabo Verde, Cameroon, Canada, Cote d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of Congo, Denmark, France, Gabon, The Gambia, Germany, Ghana, Guinea-Bissau, Italy, Liberia, Morocco, Namibia, Netherlands, Nigeria, Poland, Portugal, Republic of Congo, Sao Tome and Principe, Senegal, Sierra Leone, Spain, Togo, and the United States. Also participating will be the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS) and the Economic Community of Central African States (ECCAS).

For more than 80 years, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-U.S. Naval Forces Africa (NAVEUR-NAVAF) has forged strategic relationships with allies and partners, leveraging a foundation of shared values to preserve security and stability.

Headquartered in Naples, Italy, NAVEUR-NAVAF operates U.S. naval forces in the U.S. European Command (USEUCOM) and U.S. Africa Command (USAFRICOM) areas of responsibility. U.S. Sixth Fleet is permanently assigned to NAVEUR-NAVAF, and employs maritime forces through the full spectrum of joint and naval operations.

Source: United States Navy

The exercises tested Shiloh’s, proficiency in combat capability, lethality, as well as interoperability with other nations.

Shiloh participated alongside other units including USS Rafael Peralta (DDG 115), USS Chancellorsville (CG 62), and Japanese Maritime Self Defense Force ship JS Ashigara (DDG 178) in a number of simulated events including small boat counters, strait transits, navigation, and weapons testing.

“SWATT was a dynamic bilateral exercise that emphasized our ability to operate with other U.S. and JMSDF units cohesively,” said Capt. Adam Cheatham, commanding officer of the Shiloh. “Interoperability is key to our mission in 7th Fleet.”

Throughout SWATT, Shiloh tested weapon systems such as the Phalanx Close-In Weapon System (CIWS), Mark 45 5-Inch Gun, and the Mark 38 25 mm machine gun in a series of live-fire exercises, some which were in tandem with the other ships during some of the evolutions.

“This exercise gave the crew an opportunity to utilize its combat power,” said Lt. Cmdr. Joshua Szakal, the ship’s combat systems officer. “We want to be able to dominate and bring the lethality of the Navy where it is needed.”

Shiloh’s participation in SWATT culminated in the firing of a standard missile to a drone in the ocean on the last day. The missile was primarily controlled from the ship’s combat information center.

“It was a good feeling to hit that button and watch the missile leave that launcher,” said Fire Controlman (Aegis) 2nd Class Edwin Seeraj who stood watch at the missile supervision system in CIC. “It is good to know that your system works and that all our hours of maintenance has paid off.

The outcome of SWATT was viewed as successful by the Ashigara, which was a first-time participant.

“We improved our tactical capabilities with the U.S. Navy throughout the exercise. said Capt. Kiichiro Sakai, the captain of the Ashigara. “In this way, the JMSDF and the U.S. Navy closely work together on a regular basis to maintain and strengthen our bilateral capabilities to various contingencies.”

Throughout the last few years, the Shiloh has participated in various exercises in 7th Fleet Area of Responsibility such as Keen Sword 21 in 2020. In the summer of 2021, Shiloh’s operations shifted to 5th Fleet AOR for several months as part of Carrier Strike Group 5, which includes the CSG 5 flagship USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76). During this period, Shiloh patrolled the Arabian Gulf and Arabian Sea in support of the U.S’s withdrawal of forces from Afghanistan.

Shiloh is forward-deployed to the U.S. 7th Fleet area of operations in support of security and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.

Source: United States Navy

Snow Crab Ex 23-1 is a two-week exercise designed to test and evaluate U.S. Navy EOD capabilities in a simulated Arctic environment and, ultimately, improve Navy EOD’s combat effectiveness.

“Navy EOD and Navy Diving forces aggressively pursue opportunities to further develop a more agile and flexible force to reduce risk to the Fleet commander,” said Capt. Chuck Eckhart, commander, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Group (EODGRU) 2. “Snow Crab Ex allows Navy EOD and Navy Diving forces to build capability and readiness in an Arctic environment, so we are better equipped to enable the maneuver of the U.S. Navy Fleet and execute our Nation’s tasking anytime and anywhere.”

During Snow Crab Ex, Explosive Ordnance Disposal Mobile Unit 12 will exercise tactical control over Navy EOD from EODMU 2, Navy Divers from Mobile Dive and Salvage Unit (MDSU) 2, as well as Sailors from EOD Expeditionary Support Unit (EODESU) 2 and Explosive Ordnance Disposal Group (EODGRU) 2.

U.S. Navy forces must be able to operate in the Arctic due to “rapidly melting sea ice and increasingly navigable waters”, according to the Department of the Navy’s Strategic Blueprint for the Arctic.

“During Snow Crab Ex, our teams can test equipment and procedures in a harsh and challenging Arctic environment,” said Cmdr. David Scherr, commander, EODMU 12. “It’s important that we are able to operate wherever we are called, so we are taking a hard look at what works in cold weather and where we can improve or make changes.”

Navy EOD will clear simulated unexploded ordnance, secure critical infrastructure, and effectively communicate between units who will be distributed and operating simultaneously in a training environment- while also maintaining command and control (C2) during the exercise.
Navy Divers will also complete ice dive training to ensure they can complete dive and salvage operations in Arctic waters.

Camp Ripley and the Minnesota National Guard provides ideal conditions and training ranges to simulate an Arctic environment for ice and cold weather dive training, where Navy divers can train in a subzero temperature and arduous conditions at training ranges.

EODMU 2, EODMU 12, EODESU 2, and MDSU 2 are headquartered at Joint Expeditionary Base Little Creek-Fort Story under EODGRU 2. EODGRU 2 operates as part of Navy Expeditionary Combat Command and EODGRU 2 provides skilled, capable, and combat-ready deployable Navy EOD and Navy Diver forces around the globe to support a range of operations.

For more news about U.S. Navy EOD, U.S. Navy Divers, and EODGRU 2, visit https://www.dvidshub.net/unit/EODG-2

Source: United States Navy

The pilot program’s second year includes continued implementation of additional mental health services such as a revitalized walk-in clinic at the U.S. Navy base in Bahrain and the launch of an intensive outpatient program. The new outpatient program for mental health patients has been established in partnership with community-based provider Serene Psychiatric Hospital.

“Our goal is to provide our service members and their families with the best care possible,” said Vice Adm. Brad Cooper, commander of NAVCENT, U.S. 5th Fleet and Combined Maritime Forces. “We couldn’t be more pleased to continue partnering with the local community in Bahrain, which has been absolutely tremendous in welcoming and supporting the U.S. military and our families for decades.”

The initial phase of the pilot program began in February 2022. It allowed service members and their families experiencing acute mental health problems to receive up to a month of inpatient care from local providers in Bahrain.

Prior to the pilot’s launch, military personnel and families could only receive approximately a week of inpatient treatment locally for mental health while awaiting return to the United States, and intensive outpatient care was not available.

The new options enacted last year reduced the number of patients who would have been evacuated to the United States for treatment by 40%, enabling more personnel to remain on duty and with family members stationed in Bahrain.

“During the first year of the pilot, we were able to keep patients in theater instead of flying them home,” said Capt. Miguel Cubano, NAVCENT’s force surgeon. “This would have not been possible prior to the program. The coordination between the military health team and providers in the Bahrain community has been superb.”

In December, the branch health clinic at Naval Support Activity (NSA) Bahrain revamped walk-in services, enabling military and family members to receive more immediate patient support. Behavioral health technicians and providers now staff a readiness clinic each morning during workdays to evaluate potential patients and introduce them to a range of mental health services available locally.

In addition to enhancing walk-in support services, the branch health clinic recently launched an intensive outpatient program with Serene Psychiatric Hospital. Under this program, a patient spends a full day receiving treatment, including individual care at Serene and group therapy at the military health clinic. 

“We’re invested in keeping Sailors ready – operationally, personally and for their families,” said Lt. Cmdr. Kyle Bandermann, a psychologist who directs behavioral health services at the clinic. “It’s our job to get the right people to the right place at the right time.”

For information on pathways to mental health care, find the latest NSA Bahrain Mental Health Roadmap here: https://www.cusnc.navy.mil/BH-Road-Map/

The U.S. 5th Fleet area of operations encompasses about 2.5 million square miles of water area and includes the Arabian Gulf, Gulf of Oman, Red Sea and parts of the Indian Ocean. The region is comprised of 21 countries and includes three critical choke points at the Strait of Hormuz, the Suez Canal and the Strait of Bab al-Mandeb at the southern tip of Yemen.

Source: United States Navy

En route to Gölcük, Nitze anchored in İstanbul, Türkiye opposite the historic Dolmabahçe Palace. Commander Katie Jacobson, commanding officer of Nitze, hosted U.S. Ambassador to Türkiye Jeffry Flake, Deputy Chief of Mission Scott Oudkirk, and U.S. Consul General to İstanbul Julie Eadeh on board for a tour and meeting with U.S. crewmembers.

“Türkiye is a highly valued NATO Ally,” said Ambassador Flake. “Nitze’s visit is an opportunity to further strengthen our long-standing and vital partnership with Türkiye.”

Türkiye’s joint operations with the U.S. Navy in the Mediterranean Sea reinforce the power of the NATO Alliance and enhances interoperability. The Mediterranean is a critical waterway for maritime commerce and stability throughout Europe. The U.S. Navy routinely operates in this region in close coordination with our regional Allies and partners. 

“The Navy offers a unique opportunity to strengthen the NATO alliance between the U.S. and Türkiye while allowing the crew to experience the rich culture and history of a strategically important country that bridges Europe and Asia,” said Cmdr. Katie Jacobson. “Nitze’s officers and crew are truly excited to be here.”

While in Türkiye, Nitze leadership will engage with military officials and civilian leaders. Its crew will have opportunities to explore the nation’s history, cuisine, culture, and natural beauty.

“I think I speak for everyone when I say how thrilled I am to be going to Türkiye,” said Chief Personnel Specialist Lacey Thercy. “Türkiye is a county I haven’t had the privilege to experience yet and I’m looking forward to opportunity to get off the ship and soak up the sights, sounds, and culture of the country.”

The port visit marks Nitze’s third port visit in the U.S. Sixth Fleet area of operations since departing her homeport of Norfolk, for a scheduled deployment. Nitze is part of the George H.W. Bush Carrier strike Group (CSG) operating in the U.S. Sixth Fleet area of operation as part of a scheduled deployment.

The Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS George H.W. Bush (CVN 77) is the flagship of CSG-10, George H.W. Bush CSG. CSG-10 is comprised of George H.W. Bush Carrier Air Wing (CVW) 7, Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 26, the Information Warfare Commander, and the Ticonderoga-class guided-missile cruiser USS Leyte Gulf (CG 55).

The ships of DESRON-26 within CSG-10 are the Arleigh Burke-class guided-missile destroyers which include Nitze, USS Farragut (DDG 99), USS Truxtun (DDG 103), and USS Delbert D. Black (DDG 119).

The assigned squadrons of CVW-7 embarked aboard the George H.W. Bush include: the “Sidewinders” of Strike Fighter Squadron (VFA) 86, the “Jolly Rogers” of VFA-103, the “Knighthawks” of VFA-136, the “Pukin Dogs” of VFA-143, the “Bluetails” of Carrier Airborne Early Warning Squadron (VAW) 121, the “Patriots” of Electronic Attack Squadron (VAQ) 140, the “Nightdippers” of Helicopter Sea Combat Squadron (HSC) 5, and the “Grandmasters” of Helicopter Maritime Strike Squadron (HSM) 46.

For over 80 years, U.S. Naval Forces Europe-Africa (NAVEURNAVAF) has forged strategic relationships with allies and partners, leveraging a foundation of shared values to preserve security and stability.

Headquartered in Naples, Italy, NAVEUR-NAVAF operates U.S. naval forces in the U.S. European Command (USEUCOM) and U.S. Africa Command (USAFRICOM) areas of responsibility. U.S. Sixth Fleet is permanently assigned to NAVEUR-NAVAF and employs maritime forces through the full spectrum of joint and naval operations.

The George H.W. Bush CSG is on a scheduled deployment in the U.S. Naval Forces Europe area of operations, employed by U.S. Sixth Fleet to defend U.S., allied, and partner interests.